Deciding between a Structural Warranty or a Professional Consultant's Certificate

It goes without saying that you'll want your new home built to the highest standards and you may have been planning on getting an architect's certificate when the build is complete - but don't be fooled into thinking that this provides you with cover in the case of any structural defect. There are some key differences to consider when deciding on the right insurance for your project.

What is a Structural Warranty

A structural (or latent defects) warranty covers the costs of repairing damage to your home, arising from major defects, for a period of 10 years after completion. Defects can be caused by issues around workmanship or materials used. A warranty also covers developing defects that could lead to damage - even if that damage has yet to occur.

What is a Professional Consultant's Certificate (PPC)

A Professional Consultant's Certificate (PPC) demonstrates that your architect has the necessary experience, professional indemnity in place and has visited the site during construction to check on the progress of the build. A PPC makes the architect liable for six years but does not provide cover for structural defects.

Weighing up the Pros and Cons

Unlike a PCC, a structural warranty removes the need for you to prove negligence or blame against your professional consultant, typically an architect. This can be difficult, time-consuming and costly with no guarantee of a favourable outcome for you. With a warranty, you simply need to prove that there is significant damage resulting from a latent defect.

This also means you do not need to worry if your architect or professional consultant goes out of business. You remain protected by a structural warranty in those circumstances because a successful claim through a warranty does not need to prove negligence or attribute blame.

A structural warranty also typically covers additional costs incurred as part of a successful claim, and the cost to remove debris. It also includes alternative accommodation arrangements - a huge comfort if the damage (or remedial work) is so disruptive that you need to live elsewhere.

You're investing a huge amount of time and money into building your dream home. Don't leave anything to chance. Make sure you have adequate insurance cover in place. For more information and a summary of cover offered by BuildCare Structural Warranty click here